It is very important to practice safe sex to avoid unwanted pregnancies and to reduce the risk of contracting a sexually transmissible infection such as genital herpes, hepatitis, gonorrhea or HIV.
A woman taking oral contraceptive pill will not be protected against sexually transmitted diseases, only the pregnancy. The chance of becoming pregnant while using condom is 2 percent to 10 percent, depending on how carefully it is used and whether it is used in conjunction with a spermicide.
If you had unprotected sex or if the condom may have failed, see the doctor as soon as possible. Emergency contraception ( the morning after pill) is available on prescription, but must be used with in 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse.
Condoms provide a physical barrier to sperm and sexually transmitted diseases, and their effectiveness is dependent upon their correct use. Condoms should always be stored away from heat and sunlight, and should be discarded if they are beyond their expiry date.
Condoms maybe damaged by heat, if they handled roughly, or if the vagina is so dry. Spermicides provide only limited lubrication , so they may also need a lubricant. Vaginal antifungal creams can damage condoms and diaphragms . Unsuitable lubricants ( such as cooking oil or baby oil) may also damage condoms. Vaseline or butter can destroy the condom barrier with in 60 seconds.
Spermicides should be used in conjunction with condoms and diaphragms to increased their reliability. Or maybe you need seek advice from your doctor..
